**Cyprus Presidency Highlights Progress on Future of EU Fisheries Policy**
**Luxembourg** – Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou emphasized significant advancements made during Cyprus' presidency of the European Union regarding the future of European fisheries, funding for the sector, and preparations for the next phase of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Her remarks came after the first day of the final Agriculture and Fisheries Council held in Luxembourg.
During the discussions, the focus was on the CFP's trajectory beyond 2027, including fishing opportunities for that year and the European Commission's evaluation of the current fisheries framework. Panayiotou noted that Cyprus had championed measures designed to support fishermen, aquaculture producers, and coastal communities. Additionally, the presidency aimed to enhance the international dimension of EU fisheries policy.
Among the notable achievements cited by Panayiotou were amendments to the regulation on fishing opportunities, advancements in sustainable fisheries partnership agreements with countries such as Seychelles, São Tomé and Príncipe, and the Cook Islands, as well as agreements with the European Parliament to integrate measures adopted by regional fisheries management organizations into EU law.
A significant part of the discussions revolved around the future EU budget and the support allocated for the fisheries sector during the financial period from 2028 to 2034. Panayiotou indicated that progress had been made in reinforcing the role of fisheries and aquaculture within the upcoming multiannual financial framework. This includes targeted support for fisheries control, data collection, and the sustainable development of aquaculture. Current proposals suggest a doubling of dedicated funding for the CFP to €4 billion, which, along with additional safeguards for fisheries control and data collection, could maintain the sector's budget at levels comparable to the current funding period.
"The discussion confirmed a shared commitment to sustainability, competitiveness, resilience, and support for coastal communities," Panayiotou stated.
Ministers also initiated discussions on fishing opportunities for 2027, a part of the annual process for determining total allowable catches and quotas. Panayiotou reported a general consensus that decisions should be guided by the best available scientific advice while considering the economic viability of the fishing sector and the challenges fishermen face.
Additionally, she welcomed the European Commission's ongoing evaluation of the CFP, describing it as a crucial milestone for assessing the current framework's effectiveness and shaping future reforms. Cyprus is set to hand over the presidency to Ireland, having laid the groundwork for the next phase of European fisheries policy, which aims to foster a more resilient and competitive sector.
When asked about the possibility of achieving a partial general approach on the future fisheries funding framework before the end of the month, Panayiotou expressed optimism, noting that significant progress had already been made during Cyprus' presidency. She mentioned that bilateral contacts with member states would continue and that consultations would intensify in the coming days, with Cyprus committed to advancing negotiations before the presidency concludes.
European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis also addressed the council, discussing the state of the European fisheries sector and the long-term outlook for the CFP. He pointed out that more fish stocks are now being harvested sustainably compared to previous years, reflecting improvements in fisheries management across the EU. However, he cautioned that challenges persist, particularly in the Mediterranean, where several fish stocks are under pressure, and environmental conditions in the Baltic Sea remain challenging. Additionally, declining catches have been observed in parts of the northeast Atlantic.
Kadis highlighted that the sector faces ongoing pressures from climate change, an aging workforce, wage concerns, and rising energy costs. Regarding the future of the CFP, he noted that member states largely support retaining the core objectives and principles established under the 2013 reform while advocating for greater predictability, simplified procedures, fleet modernization, decarbonization, and enhanced support for aquaculture.
The findings from the Commission's review are expected to inform future initiatives, including the Vision 2040 for Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Ocean Act, and negotiations on the EU's next long-term budget. Kadis also mentioned preparations for the upcoming MedFish4Ever ministerial declaration, anticipated to be signed in 2027, which aims to strengthen cooperation between the EU and Mediterranean partner countries to restore regional fish stocks.
In conclusion, Kadis praised the contribution of the Cyprus presidency to the discussions surrounding the future of EU fisheries policy and negotiations on the next multiannual financial framework, underscoring the collaborative efforts made during this pivotal period.